Authorities have named the son of a Southern California radiologist as the prime suspect in a tragic double murder on November 30. The shooting resulted in the deaths of Eric and Vicki Cordes, aged 63 and 66, at their Simi Valley residence. The incident unfolded in the afternoon when Keith Cordes, 37, allegedly entered the garage of their Hawks Bill Place home and opened fire.
Details of the Incident
Both Eric and Vicki Cordes sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, they succumbed to their injuries later that day at a nearby trauma center. Simi Valley police promptly initiated a detailed investigation into the shooting.
Suspect Identification
Within hours of the tragedy, Keith Cordes was found dead over 70 miles away in San Bernardino County. According to police reports, he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death occurred shortly after the shooting at his parents’ home.
Investigation and Evidence
Initial investigations revealed that Keith Cordes was connected to the incident, as he is the stepson of Vicki Cordes. Law enforcement identified his black Honda Civic, which was captured by the FLOCK camera system leaving the Wood Ranch neighborhood shortly after the shooting. The vehicle was later tracked via license plate-reading cameras on the 210 Freeway.
- Last Known Location: Exiting at Chino and arriving at Ayala Park.
- Crime Scene Evidence: Police found the car burned and abandoned at Ayala Park.
- Murder Weapon: Authorities suspect that the same firearm was used in both the homicides and the suicide.
Community Reaction
Neighboring residents expressed shock and sorrow over the incident. They remembered Eric Cordes as a dedicated radiologist with Adventist Health Simi Valley for nearly 30 years. Vicki Cordes was respected in the community for her work as a fitness instructor.
As investigations continue, Simi Valley police are working to uncover the events leading up to the murder and potential motive behind this devastating crime.
